The apostle Paul cared first and foremost that the gospel be preached and churches be planted. Still, he understood that we must care about good government. He wrote to Timothy:

“I urge… that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Christians of that day could not have imagined having the power to cast a vote. There were no elections. What a privilege we have, each of us with a vote, a voice, an influence.

Why must we care about government? Paul tells us the reason: “that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” In these fraught times, don’t we all want that for our families, for our country?

Pray for government leaders and candidates. Their responsibility is great. Their critics never stop. They are often misrepresented by the press and their families feel the stress. Pray for both the leaders you like and those you do not, in obedience to the Scripture. It is a sweet offering of obedience to the Lord to pray for others when it goes against the grain.

Pray for God’s will to be done. We know that the Lord works out His purposes over generations, over centuries. Just as we pray each Sunday for God’s will to be done “on earth as it is in heaven,” so we pray for God’s will to be done in this election.

Pray that true wisdom will guide the thinking and the voting of our citizens. All of us are pushed and pulled by media influencers. Let us pray that despite any manipulation or pressure, wisdom will be recognized.

Pray, vote, and then be at peace. Paul writes:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

Pray for spiritual renewal. More deeply than we need good political leaders, our people need the Lord. May God turn the hearts of the people to Himself. May we have a revival of faith in each heart.

Lord: Please guide our nation, so divided and in great unrest. Give wisdom to our leaders. Give clarity to each of us as we vote. In our lives as citizens, may we act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you. We pray in Jesus’ name as His followers. Amen.

by Pastor June Barrow